On October 5, 1912, C. F. Curtiss received from N. S. Ward of Hamburg, Iowa, a specimen of Johnson grass with the following letter: "Please send me names and value, If any, of sample weed. It grows up in my corn field after corn is laid by, as high as corn. Has heads 8 to 10 inches long. Seems to be getting worse each year. Neighbors say it's Johnson grass. Would It be good for bay or pasture?" The specimen sent was a specimen of Johnson grass. Mr. Ward was notified that the weed should be exterminated, as It might prove a very serious menace to the agricultural Interests In that section of the state.